The dispute is between Odendaalsrus Majakathata Long Distance Taxi Association, Kgathelopele Taxi Association - who both operate in the Odendaalsrus and Welkom regions- as well as the Welkom United Taxi Association (WUTA) who are the host association on the operation from Welkom to Odendaalsrus. It follows the establishment of an illegal taxi rank at Matlharantlheng in Welkom by the Odendaalsrus Long Distance Taxi Association in rivalry to the Welkom United Taxi Association and Kgathelopele Taxi Association. 

Mashinini has asked the associations to have a sit-down to prevent sabotaging the economy as the majority of commuters depends on safe and reliable public transport. He added that he would like to assure the people of the Free State that the Department of Police, Roads and Transport will continue to engage with all parties involved and work on finding a suitable solution.

On 1 July 2020 an agreement was reached between the Department of Police, Roads and Transport and the warring taxi operators in the area. “We must sit around the table to resolve our differences. If we do not, there could be damage to property and loss of lives,” concluded Mashinini. He asked all parties to respect the agreement reached earlier in the week.

Press release